Move over to a four stroke?

[rizz1135]

I've been contemplating adding a 350x to my garage full of toys. I've spent most of my riding time on two strokes, except for a short stint on a yz250f when the four strokes first hit the scene and before the amateur rules allowed all 250cc to race together. Anyways, I enjoyed my time with that machine but really couldn't get over how bad the engine braking is when landing high speed jumps or how heavy the engine would feel when charging into turns. Since returning to a yz250 back in '05 I cannot imagine going back to a four stroke for mx, not nearly as much fun even if they are not as powerful as the 450f's.

So, my question is... having never ridden a 350x how do they compare to the 250r's performance/handling characteristics. I know everyone is going to have their own opinions on which one is better but I am looking for some comparisons from those who have spent time on both the 350x and the 250r and how they felt about different characteristics of each. Also, what's the maintenance like on a 350x? Do they need valve adjustments as often as the new four stroke mx bikes or not because they are not as high revving as the new four stroke tech? Any honest insight will be greatly appreciated. Thanks,

(I have absolutely no intention of ever stopping to ride the two strokes as a main bike just considering adding a 350x to the arsenal.)

[jb2wheels]

I have both a 250R and a 350X. I also have a Tecate. All are stock. All are 85s, interestingly enough.

If I had to keep one, it would be the R. But I can have more than one so I get to mix and match.

I like to ride the 2 strokes when I'm fresh and the tractor (350X) when I'm tired. The 2 strokes demand a little more attention - especially the fickle b!t(h Tecate. That one does not suffer fools at all.

I like to trail ride the X because it's not as important what gear it's in. The Tecate is a handful for me on teh trails. My R is really nice and I don't like to rock and tree it.

But, I'm a duner at heart and I love the way the R rides/works in the dunes. That trumps everything else for me.

The R has the best suspension and handles the best of the 3. You sit "in" it more than on it like the X or Tecate.

Adjusting the valves is no big deal. I have no experience with newer 4 strokes.

I'd actually rather deal with valve adjustment than water cooling. Just one more nasty fluid. Worth it on the 2 strokes, but coolant sucks.

They all need oil changes, filter cleaning, pivot and slide and chain lube, brake fluid changes, etc.

I do lust after a TPC 450, though.

Bottom line - if you have the space and the $$, add an X to the mix.

[sanchez]

4t if it running it will pull you power great. I sold mine yep i sold a trike.
The power on a 350 is the same as my oem carb 82 250r but a2t is easier to start, and thats a tired 600$ r, tight trails 4t power always better
The other big reason the leading axle no rake in the tripples front end setup felt wrong to me, most converts is more like the 350 as i've noticed leading my perception to be my taste. They go fast. I don't so much. But a similar leading axle no rake in triples set up is on my cr conversion and is my bane.
Like always go ride one first.

[rizz1135]

Thanks for the advice. I do most of my riding on old logging trails and sand roads and the 250r's seem to treat me quite well on them. The four stroke might be pretty capable of the riding I do on the logging trails. I'll keep everyone updated on the search for the 350x. I would love to get my hands on a TPC also, but the $$$...

[Dirtweed]

the tractor (350X) when I'm tired.



350X......The Tractor. LOL!!!

[fabiodriven]

All I have to add is the 350X will not require nearly the amount of valve adjustments that the new four strokes do, and even if it did it's not hard to do.

[El Camexican]

All I have to add is the 350X will not require nearly the amount of valve adjustments that the new four strokes do, and even if it did it's not hard to do.

Exactly. The 350 is still an old school rock just as reliable as any old Honda XR400. The new hyper revving MX engines you are used to are time bombs just waiting for a laps in maintenance for an excuse to blow up.

[Ghostv2]

I do more of trail riding and trails are kinda rough around here. So going fast i could care less about. So im a 4 stroke fan. I just like the fact i can throw in some gas and go, not worry about if i have some premix left, and not worrying about an expensive rebuild coming up, changing plugs, etc. It comes down to where you will be riding and what you prefer. The two strokes power and quick get up and go is addicting. One day i hope to add an 250r or a Tri-Z to my collection but im in no rush. I love my 200x.

Whats the worst thing that could happen by adding a 350x to your collection, you fall in love with it? :naughty: